The Gel'joQ consisted of a forward shaft that was broader and more trapezoidal in shape than most other Klingon designs, with a forward module that compared to that of the Vor'cha-class is shorter but broader. The shaft widens as it moves aft into the main body with two wing pylons to port and starboard. These wings curve downwards in two distinct angles and end with warpnacelles. Above the main body was a wedge-shaped structure like that on the latter Vor'cha and Negh'Var-class vessels, but was much broader and longer.

The Gel'joQ entered service in 2357 but did not come to the fore until the 2370s, where it played a major role in the wars the Klingon Empire fought. However, the conflict also revealed some of the design's weaknesses. It was slower and less maneuverable than the Jem'Hadar battle cruisers it faced during the Dominion War, which saw it suffer high losses in some battles. The ship also suffered from a weakening of its aft shield junctions when it moved at high impulse speeds.